01/08/2025
CHARLES EDWARD C**N, owner of the Albert C Adams House from 1907 until his death, passed into memory on this day, Jan 8, 1920. Today, 105 years later, we honor his life and commitment to public service.
C**n was a Civil War veteran, fighting for the Union army at 2nd Bull Run and other important battles. After the war he began a career in the US Treasury Department working his way up to Assistant Secretary (and for a time Acting Sec). While at Treasury he was responsible for negotiating down millions of dollars in war debt owed to European governments.
A "confirmed old batchelor," he moved to WA in 1897 to be with family, including his sister Camilla, and his niece, Helen Pragge (husband Charles). He and Charles Pragge owned and operated The Port Townsend Mercantile Company out of the CC Bartlett Building.
He served as Mayor of Port Townsend for 4 terms, and Lt. Governor of WA for 1 term. He was also a founder and leader in many civic organizations like the Elks, the Chamber of Commerce, the GAR, and the PT Hustlers, an early booster group. C**n has slipped from PT civic memory, but deserves revitalization as many important improvements happened during his administrations, such as the first gravity water system which piped in water from the Olympic mountain range, the building of the Carnegie Library, and the establishment of Chetzemoka Park. Just to name a few.
At the time of his death he was serving a term as representative in the State of WA house.
He died peacefully at home after suffering a stroke in the days before. He was 77 years old and beloved in town; known by many as Uncle Charlie.
Elegant bed & breakfast in Port Townsend's iconic, 1889 Queen Anne Victorian. Three spacious suites.
